Wicknell Chivayo Defends Mnangagwa Against Calls for Protests

Wicknell Chivayo defends President Emmerson Mnangagwa from threats posed by war veteran Blessed ‘Bombshell’ Geza, who is leading calls for protests against the government. Chivayo condemns the proposed demonstrations, labeling them as acts of terrorism and urging citizens to reject calls for violence. The tensions illustrate factional divides within the Zanu PF party, as the government increases security measures in response to the escalating situation.

In response to threats from war veteran Blessed ‘Bombshell’ Geza and his associates, Wicknell Chivayo, a businessman linked to the ruling Zanu PF party, has stepped forward to defend President Emmerson Mnangagwa against impending protests. Geza’s faction within the war veterans’ community is dissatisfied with Mnangagwa’s governance, accusing him of fostering corruption within his administration. The government has reacted by increasing security measures to prevent these planned demonstrations.

Chivayo publicly dismissed Geza’s political influence, asserting that the calls for unrest are unwarranted in Zimbabwe, which he describes as a peaceful nation characterized by educated and law-abiding citizens. In a vehement social media statement, he denounced Geza, claiming he no longer warrants the title of ‘Cde’ and labeling him as an ineffective and disgraced politician, who resorts to inciting chaos while in exile.

Chivayo has not only defended Mnangagwa but has also become a target of Geza’s threats, attributed to allegations of corruption tied to government contracts. Previously, Chivayo’s company was awarded a significant contract worth $100 million to supply materials for the 2023 general elections. In a chilling incident, vehicles associated with him and other businessmen were set ablaze on Thursday night amid rising tensions.

Describing the protests as an act of terrorism, Chivayo condemned any transition from peaceful assembly to violent actions such as arson. He urged Zimbabweans to reject Geza’s calls for protest, stating, “No serious, patriotic Zimbabwean should entertain this.” He encouraged citizens to continue their daily lives without heed to these provocative calls, emphasizing the need for stability.

The call for protests highlights factional disputes within Zanu PF, prompting Mnangagwa to admonish party members who align with Geza during a recent Central Committee meeting. Chivayo reiterated that potential leaders must respect existing political timelines, indicating that Mnangagwa’s term is expected to end in 2028, and advised aspiring leaders to wait until then. He expressed his loyalty to Zanu PF and his commitment to supporting democratically elected candidates in future elections.

The recent developments surrounding the planned protests against President Mnangagwa expose underlying strife within the ruling party and suggest increasing discontent among certain factions. Wicknell Chivayo’s staunch defense of the president highlights the urgency with which the government is addressing these challenges. By condemning the calls for protests and emphasizing the need for legal political processes, Chivayo seeks to maintain stability in Zimbabwe as the country navigates these tumultuous political waters.

Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com